Premier Christy Clark will use Metro Vancouver’s two byelections to test-drive her newest promise to voters: That her governing Liberal party is ready to return untold financial “dividends” to starved government programs and services, after several years of austerity.

Carey Doberstein, assistant professor of political science at the University of B.C.’s Okanagan campus says:

“She is clearly cognizant of the interest Canadians expressed in government making increased investments in infrastructure, education and health care through the election of the Trudeau government in the fall, but is also committed to restraining government spending and balanced budgets.”

The Government seems to recognize the value of cycling. In the run-up to the last election, the $7 million of cycling for municipalities was announced through MLAs offices. The $20 million widening of the sidewalks on the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge was announced on the last day possible before the official election period.

Since the last election, cycling funding was increase by 50% to $18 million over three years. In addition, $7 million has been invested on the Stanley Park Causeway upgrades and the Province has contributed $7 million towards the Okanagan Rail Trail.

Still, much more funding is required to enable everyone to cycle and walk for their daily trips. While bike paths and protected bike lanes are a bargain that will benefit far more people per dollar invested than other transportation projects, it does take a significant amount of cash to build networks of them in communities around the Province. For example:

Metro Vancouver: $850 million

Capital Regional District: $275 million

City of Kelowna: $267 million

City of Chilliwack: $27 Million

City of Kamloops: $13 Million

Help show Premier Clark that there is strong support for investment in cycling. Please signthe Cycling and Walking for Everyone petition and share it with your friends, family and co-workers.

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Please Premier Clark know that you want more cycling. Let them know what greatly improved cycling would mean for your family and community.

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Because cycling has a number of benefits, and safety of cyclists should be a top priority. Secured bike lanes and improved infrastructure, together with law protecting cyclists, will allow more people to get around by bike.